According to SportBild, Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs interested in the services of Florian Grillitsch. The TSG Hoffenheim midfielder has been one of the top performers for the club this season. As a result, the likes of Arsenal, Southampton and Newcastle United are all monitoring his situation. It is believed that Grillitsch has a release clause of only €25 million.
Who is Florian Grillitsch?
Grillitsch is arguably one of the most hard-working players in the Bundesliga. A central midfielder by trade, the Hoffenheim star is known for his work-rate and aggression, which has made him an integral part of Alfred Schreuder’s system this term. Indeed, he has featured in 21 league games so far, helping Hoffenheim battle it out with Schalke and Wolfsburg for the Europa League spot.
As mentioned earlier, Grillitsch’s aggression makes him a pivotal part of the TSG side. And it is backed up by the fact that the midfielder has attempted three tackles per game this season with a success rate of 60%. He is also good at reading the game, having made more interceptions than anyone else (31) in the team.
However, what makes Grillitsch such a well-rounded midfielder is his ability to rotate possession. The 24-year-old has attained a pass completion rate of 87%. This is pretty impressive given only four sides have maintained more possession than Hoffenheim this season.
And on the flip side, Grillitsch has been dispossessed more often than any other TSG midfielder. It raises question marks on whether or not he will be able to cope with the faster-paced nature of the Premier League.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
Is Grillitsch a wise choice by Mourinho?
Tottenham Hotspur are certainly in need of midfield reinforcements in the summer. Moussa Sissoko has struggled with injuries this season while Eric Dier is not considered as a viable option anymore. Oliver Skipp, too, has barely played under Jose Mourinho.
As a result, the Lilywhites have lately relied on the services of Harry Winks. While they have managed to sign Gedson Fernandes on loan in January, the constant fitness issues of marquee signing Tanguy Ndombele has created a huge void in the midfield department. That’s where Grillitsch could ideally fit in.
The Hoffenheim star, hardened by a few years of experience at the highest level of football, seems like a perfect fit for Mourinho’s pragmatic style of play which focuses on denying opposition of the opportunity to make the transition in the final third.
Grillitsch’s aggression and work-ethic tune in well with the physically astute nature of the Premier League. And for a fee of just €25 million, he could be a bargain signing for the north London giants this summer.
